Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav jailed over loan dispute

In a stark fall from the silver screen’s comic limelight, popular Bollywood actor Rajpal Yadav has been sent to Delhi’s Tihar Jail after surrendering in connection with a long-pending financial dispute involving a multi-crore loan taken for a film project over a decade ago.

On Thursday, the Delhi High Court refused to recall its order directing the actor to surrender, observing that his conduct did not merit any relief. The court stated, "the law rewards compliance, not contempt."

The legal trouble traces back to 2010, when Yadav borrowed ₹5 crore from Delhi-based Murli Projects Pvt Ltd to finance his directorial venture, Ata Pata Laapata (2012). The film’s commercial failure led to difficulties in repaying the amount, eventually resulting in a series of cheque bounce cases filed by the lending company.

In 2018, a magisterial court convicted both Yadav and his wife, Radha, under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act. The financial liability, with accrued interest and penalties, has now reportedly escalated to nearly ₹9 crore.

The Delhi High Court had earlier this week directed the actor to surrender by February 4, rejecting his plea for an extension.

Rajpal Yadav, beloved for his comic roles in hit films like Hungama, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and Chup Chup Ke, has not yet issued a detailed public statement following the latest legal action. Industry observers and fans have expressed surprise at the prolonged legal battle surrounding the actor, highlighting the financial risks often hidden behind the glamour of film production.